Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Maedeh Omidi nowbijar ¹
• Hossein Barani ¹
• Mohammad Rahim Forouzeh ¹
• Ahmad Abedi Sarvestani ²

¹ Department of Rangeland Management, Faculty of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran

² Department of promotion and education, Faculty of Agricultural Management, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran

Abstract

Throughout history, humans have harnessed the healing power of plants and animals, accumulating invaluable knowledge about their therapeutic benefits. Today, the rise in side effects of modern medicine, the urgent need for new drug discovery, and the potential loss of indigenous wisdom necessitate documenting this knowledge. This research aimed to record the traditional treatment practices of stockbreeders in eastern Gilan, Iran, relying on ethnographic methods like direct observation, participatory observation, and semi-structured interviews conducted in rural and nomadic communities. The results were classified into four sections: medicinal and edible plants, animal products, minerals, and other measures. Stockbreeders utilize 52 medicinal plants from 28 families, primarily for treating digestive, respiratory, infectious, kidney, heart, wound, and fracture ailments. Milk and its products are important for digestive, skin, and hair health. Minerals like mountain soil are used to treat kidney diseases and wounds. Quantitative analysis is crucial in studying traditional therapies and can lead to the discovery of new bioactive compounds for clinical trials. Documenting indigenous treatment methods and passing them on to future generations strengthens scientific knowledge, preserves our rich medical heritage, and provides a valuable source of treatment options.

Keywords

• Indigenous knowledge
• Traditional healing
• Medicinal plants
• Animal products
• Gilan province